Rising Star: Meet Warner Music's Bee Thomas

Each week, Music Week profiles the brightest new talents in the business. This week, Bee Thomas of Warner Music tells her story...

How did you break into the music industry?

I had been working in hospitality and events management in Brighton after I graduated from Sussex University with an English degree, but I always knew that I really wanted to work in music. It seemed a bit of a pipedream, but one day I woke up and decided it was now or never. So, rather abruptly, I decided to quit my job, moved to London and started applying for internships at labels and independent PR companies. By chance, I found an internship on Twitter at Purple PR, and within 48 hours I started there. I worked as an intern for four months before they put me in touch with Katherine Bawden and Andy Prevezer at Warner Music. I became their assistant and, after a year, I became a full-time member of staff.

What’s your proudest achievement so far?

Probably the moment I found out Bugzy Malone had reached No.4 with his latest EP King Of The North. He’s an incredibly talented artist with a compelling story, and has worked hard to get to where he is. It was great to work closely to utilise his previous experiences, incorporating our ideas to help him tell his story to a larger audience. It’s a satisfying feeling when your plan comes together, and we managed to reach that next level, to top his previous releases by smashing into the Top 5 and selling out a UK tour!

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love the fact that it’s unpredictable and varies so much. I work with a broad range of talented artists and I love the things my job allows me to experience. From crazy photo shoots, to live shows and international promo trips, it’s definitely not a normal nine-to-five.

What’s the biggest challenge?

The hangovers, definitely! And also you never really ‘clock off’ - the job can involve early mornings, late nights and a lot of weekend work, so it’s important to try to balance the hectic work schedule with time for yourself.

What advice would you give to those looking to break into the biz?

It’s a grind but it’s worth it! If you work hard, people will notice. You need to take the initiative; no one is going to hand anything to you, so always ask! It’s not just major labels that offer internships either; there are loads of great indie labels and companies who offer positions. If you do get one, try to learn as much as you can and don’t be afraid to ask for advice, offer to buy people a coffee and pick their brains.

What’s your greatest ambition?

To continue working with an amazing range of talented artists every day.